Collins and Jackson close out their debates in Maine's toss-up Senate race

Sen. Susan Collins and Democratic nominee Troy Jackson held the last of their four scheduled debates on Thursday night in Bangor, closing out one of the most closely watched Senate races in the country.

Fox News, which rates the contest a toss-up, reported that a protester interrupted the final debate.

Where the candidates stand

At their third debate on Oct. 13, hosted by WABI and WAGM, the two drew sharp contrasts, Maine Morning Star reported:

• Influence vs. opposition. Collins argued Maine benefits from senators who can shape policy, pointing to tariff exemptions she said she secured for concrete, pulp and road salt. Jackson said those exemptions were a temporary patch, not a solution.
• Immigration enforcement. Collins backed reforming ICE, including funding for body cameras and de-escalation training, rather than abolishing it. Jackson called for abolishing the agency, saying it operates without proper oversight.
• Money. Collins pressed Jackson on not yet filing a campaign finance report. Jackson criticized Collins for relying on donations from nearly 100 billionaires and their spouses.

Election Day is Nov. 3.